The Bottom Line
"Unwritten," the title song from Natasha Bedingfield's first album, is climbing the pop singles chart following in the footsteps of last summer's top 10 single "These Words." It is a rousing, anthemic pop tune celebrating individual determination for young people at the moment when most of life is yet to come.
Pros
- Uplifting, positive lyrics
- Gospel chorus brings it home
Cons
- Unique Natasha Bedingfield style is not yet evident
Description
- Simple lyrical analogy between life and words on a page.
- Jangly pop backing.
- Rousing closing gospel chorus.
Guide Review - Natasha Bedingfield - Unwritten (Epic - US, Arista - UK)
In the summer of 2005 Natasha Bedingfield made her first significant impact on American audiences when the single "These Words" climbed into the pop top 10. "Unwritten" is her second single and just as strong as the first.
Lyrically, "Unwritten" is straightforward and uplifting, encouraging an uninhibited approach to determining the future. This territory is well covered in the past, but Bedingfield's single is catchy and still manages to feel fresh as a gospel chorus carries the song to a logical conclusion.
The drawback here, if any, is that Natasha Bedingfield is still lacking in an identifiably distinctive style. This is likely to develop as she matures as an artist. For now, enjoy the breath of fresh pop air that is "Unwritten."
